Method and apparatus for waste evacuation

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for waste evacuation using an extendible and retractable hose for transferring the waste have been described.

RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.10/693,780 filed Oct. 24, 2003 which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/422,406 filed Oct. 29, 2002 whichare hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to waste evacuation. More particularly,the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for implementingwaste evacuation from a mobile vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Most mobile vehicles (hereinafter referred to sometimes as RecreationalVehicles (RVs)) today have the ability to be connected to groundconnections, electric power, water, sewer, cable TV, telephone, etc. Anunpleasant task is interfacing the sewer connections. The standardaccepted practice is to manually remove a sewer hose from a storagecompartment, connect it to the RV then stretch the hose end to aconnection where the hose is inserted into a hole or a fitting that isconnected to a container for receiving the sewage.

This approach may be very unsanitary and unpleasant as well as aninvitation to a disaster, i.e. hose coming loose, connection failure,valve breaking, etc. which may result in the user getting wet, thecampground becoming contaminated, and embarrassment for all. Thispresents a problem.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example and notlimitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which likereferences indicate similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1, and FIG. 2 illustrate views of one embodiment of the inventionwith a flapper door in a closed and locked position and a position inwhich it may open;

FIG. 3 is a comparison of a standard approach with that of oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing an accesspanel;

FIG. 5, and FIG. 6 illustrate embodiments of a hose nozzle;

FIG. 7, FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 show various embodiments of an enclosure, andhose nozzle;

FIG. 10, FIG. 11, and FIG. 12 illustrate various embodiments of theinvention showing different arrangements;

FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing a systemcontrol panel and an inside monitor panel;

FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing a RV and theaccess panel;

FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21, FIG. 22,and FIG. 23 show various embodiments of the invention hose nozzle;

FIG. 24, FIG. 25, FIG. 26, and FIG. 27 show various embodiments of hosearrangements of the invention;

FIG. 28 shows an embodiment of the invention with a valve handle on theside;

FIG. 29 Illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing a source ofpressure and/or vacuum;

FIG. 31, FIG. 32, FIG. 33, FIG. 34, FIG. 35, and FIG. 36, illustratevarious embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 37 illustrates one embodiment of the invention in block schematicform;

FIG. 38, FIG. 39, and FIG. 40 illustrate other embodiments of theinvention; and

FIG. 41 illustrates another embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A method and apparatus for waste evacuation are described.

The invention in one embodiment may help eliminate some problemsassociated with transferring waste from a RV to a ground waste facility.Components are arranged in a special enclosure, for example a servicebay, located under the living floor of the RV. The sewer hose isconnected to the RV and stored in a separate tube or area isolated fromother components. A special hose nozzle is attached to the other end ofthe hose. The user opens a small door, lifts the nozzle by a handle, andpulls the hose nozzle to the ground connection, inserts the nozzle andreleases a nozzle flap door inside. By pushing a couple of buttons, orpulling a waste valve handle, the waste is transferred from the RVholding tanks to the ground service. When completed the hose nozzle flapdoor is secured, the nozzle lifted out of the ground connection and thehose is retracted back into its storage tube.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that such an embodiment asdescribed above has several features, such as, simplicity of connectingto ground facilities, the sewer hose may be connected to the RV at alltimes, a sewer hose may retract and expand linearly (i.e. a linear reel)and that no additional fittings or handling of fittings may be neededwhile expanding the hose to and contracting the hose from a groundconnection. The hose may be expanded by air pressure and contracted byvacuum, and may allow for easier emptying of the holding tanks. Thesewer hose may also be extended and retracted in a manual fashion. Thesefeatures may also help eliminate a negative user attitude because theydo not need to come into direct contact with contaminated components,and the approach is viewed as more sanitary.

In one embodiment of the invention, the component arrangement may differfrom the traditional RV in that the valves for dumping the waste tanksare usually located on the left (driver's) side of the coach making iteasier for the customer to operate the valves when dumping waste. Theinvention may have electric waste valves located on the right(passenger) side of the RV. The switches to operate the valves may belocated on the left (driver's) side of the RV. This could also be doneusing manual pull valves, however the user may not be able to view thesewer inlet which could cause the area to be flooded should the sewerback up. The user should keep the sewer inlet in line of sight duringthe waste evacuation process. Having the switches that operate thevalves located on the left (driver's) side of the RV allows the sewerhose in its contracted state to be contained in a tube or isolated areaextending to the right (passenger's) side. Attached to the extendiblehose end is a valve fitting (hose nozzle) with a handle. The user liftsthe hose nozzle using the handle and stretches the hose to the sewerinlet ground connection and places the hose nozzle in contact with thehole. The user then releases the valve latch opening the valve, whichmay be located internally in the hose nozzle, thus allowing the waste toflow from the RV to the ground receptacle when the waste valve isopened. When the user has completed emptying the waste tanks they closethe hose nozzle valve, lift it out of the ground receptacle, and retractthe hose and hose nozzle back to its home position. This approach totransferring waste from the RV to the ground receptacle allows a gravityfeed system incorporated in most RVs to work while making it anuneventful task for the user.

In one embodiment of the invention a sewer hose nozzle is used to hookup and disconnect a sewer hose from a Recreation Vehicle and may be usedfor connecting the hose fitting to a ground sewer inlet or port. Thesewer hose nozzle helps eliminate the potential for spillage because thenozzle has a technique for stopping residual wastewater from spillingwhen the nozzle is lifted out of the ground sewer inlet or port. Thesewer hose nozzle has a handle to help eliminate the user from having tohold the fittings making the operation much more sanitary. Furthermore,the nozzle is attached to the sewer hose in such a way as to preventleakage between the hose and nozzle. The handle is used to pull the hoseand retract it helping to eliminate the need to handle the hose or otherconnections making the task of draining the sewage from an RV much lessstressful for the user. The hose nozzle may also prevent any residualodor from escaping from the hose causing further embarrassment to theuser.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the invention. Nozzle 101 has aconnection end 102 that may be connected to a hose, for example, a sewerhose that is corrugated and thus collapsible and expandable in length.Other hoses may also be used for this purpose. 104 is a flapper door orvalve gate that is operated by a handle 110 that is connected via hingemeans 114 to a shaft 108 that is in contact 120 with a part of the valvedoor 104 to prevent or allow its opening. 106 is an outlet that may befitted to a tank, portal, etc. Outlet fitting 106 may be stepped asshown to fit various size openings. Outlet fitting 106 may also have asplash guard. As shown in FIG. 1, the flapper door 104 is in a closedand locked (by 108) position.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the invention. Here the handle 210is in a raised position and shaft 208 is raised so that gap 220 allowsflapper 204 to open and allow a flow from region 202 to 206.

FIG. 3 illustrates what may be considered a standard approach to wasteevacuation contrasting it with one embodiment of the invention approach.As will be noted, there are fewer operations.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of the invention. 400 is an accesspanel. 402 is a housing and cover for the nozzle 404, and 406 is amechanism for extending and retracting a hose, for example, a sewerhose.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 500. There is arelease mechanism 502 for a handle 510. Nozzle 508 may have variousshapes, such as a taper, to fit a tank or portal. Connection 504connects to a hose, for example, a sewer hose. 504 and 506 areconstructed such that they may rotate, pivot, swivel, etc.

FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle showing the handle610 in an open position for allowing flow from a hose attached at 604 toa destination in contact with the nozzle adapter 608.

One of skill in the art will understand that there are many possiblevariations of a handle, such as that shown in FIG. 6 at 610. Forexample, a handle performing the same function as 610 (opening andclosing a valve among other things) in FIG. 6 may be located on the sideof the hose nozzle body. For example, FIG. 28 shows a handle on the sideof the hose nozzle body.

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of an enclosure 700 for a hose nozzle.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of an enclosure 800 for a hose nozzle820 showing how the hose nozzle 820 may be situated within the enclosure800.

FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a mechanical interlock between anenclosure 900 and a nozzle 910. The top edge 930 of the enclosure 900will not allow the nozzle 910 to be fully inserted if the handle 920 isin the open position. In this way, the nozzle valve may be assured to beclosed if the nozzle is fully within the enclosure 900.

One of skill in the art will understand that there are many possiblevariations of a handle, and a mechanical interlock system possible. Forexample, a handle performing the same function as 920 in FIG. 9 may belocated on the side of the body 910. For example, FIG. 28 shows a handleon the side of the hose nozzle body.

FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of the invention. Two tanks orcontainers 1002 and 1004 are shown. Here, on the passenger side of a RVare located valves 1006 and 1008 feeding into a plumbing system 1010 and1012 respectively that join to a single hose 1014 which traverses acrossthe tanks and emerges on another side, for example, the driver's sidewhere it terminates in a nozzle 1016. By placing the valves on one sideof a vehicle and the nozzle on another, a hose, such as 1014 may be acollapsible or extendible hose and thus in a closed or compacted formfit within the width of a vehicle and when extended may go to a portalsome distance away from the vehicle.

Note that in an RV the tanks such as those illustrated at 1002 and 1004are often used to hold what is referred to as black and gray (or grey)water. Thus the tank holding the black water is often referred to as ablack tank and the tank holding the gray water is often referred to as agray tank. Black water is considered sewage from such sources as atoilet, etc. Gray water is considered sewage from such sources as sinks,showers, etc. 1018 and 1020 represent input/output ports for the tanks1002 and 1004 respectively. These allow water to flow in and gases toflow out. For example, if 1004 is used to hold black water, 1020 may beconnected to a toilet assembly consisting of a toilet, a U-trap, and asewer gas venting pipe which allows any gases generated from decomposingwaste in tank 1004 to vent out the top of the vehicle.

While FIG. 10 illustrates the tanks connecting to a common single hose1014, the present invention is not so limited. That is, each tank (suchas 1002 and 1004) may have its own hose for waste evacuation.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of the invention. Two tanks orcontainers 1106 and 1108 are shown. Here, on the driver side of a RV isthe nozzle 1102 shown being extended from, for example, a collapsiblehose 1104. While the hose 1104 is shown extending from a linear “reel”,other embodiments are also possible, such as a semi-circular shape. Notethat any shape that allows the hose to be attached at the passenger sideand extend from the driver side would work. It would be possible, forexample, to place the waste valves on the driver's side of the RV if amechanism was used to allow the hose to extend from the side of the RVfirst and the connection on the other end of the hose having slid to thedriver's side allowed interfacing with the outlet of the valves.

FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of the invention where from thepassenger side the hose 1202 takes a route around a tank 1204 to thenozzle 1206. The hose may take other routes as well, for example,over/under tanks, etc.

FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing a systemcontrol panel and an inside monitor panel. Monitor status 1302 shows thestate of various entities, a monitor indicator light (shown on), andwater pump. 1304 illustrates service utilities and their status, and1306 indicates status of tanks and additives. An inside monitor controlpanel 1308 has status of various entities. The control panel (1302,1304, and 1306) may be located in a variety of places; one such placemay be the side of a RV. The inside monitor panel 1308 may be placedinside the coach of a RV.

In one embodiment of the invention, the collapsible hose may be attachedto a mechanism for extending and retracting the hose. One such way toexpand and contract the hose is to apply increased or decreased pressureto the inside of the hose. For example, a higher pressure inside thecollapsible (extendible) hose as compared to the outside atmosphericpressure will cause the hose to expand or increase in length. Likewise alower pressure in the collapsible (extendible) hose than the outsideatmospheric pressure, will, if the hose is constructed properly, allowit to contract in length (i.e. retract) rather than having the walls ofthe hose collapse. Thus a source of increased air pressure or reducedair pressure in communication with the hose may cause the hose to expandor contract.

FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of the invention, showing a RV 1402from the driver side, illustrating an access panel 1404 that may housecontrols, the nozzle, etc. The access panel may be located on the sideas illustrated but other embodiments are also possible. For example, theaccess panel or door may swing downward from the undercarriage of avehicle.

FIG. 15 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 1500. The nozzle1500 connects to a hose, for example, a sewer hose at 1504 through arigid connection (1506). In this embodiment, the nozzle 1500 is attachedto a hose so that any tilting, rotation, and pivoting is that which isallowed by the flexibility of the hose.

FIG. 16 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 1600. The nozzle1600 connects to a hose, for example, a sewer hose at 1604 through aswivel connection 1606. In this embodiment, the nozzle 1600 may rotateas indicated 1608 with respect to a hose connected at 1604.

FIG. 17 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 1700. The nozzle1700 connects to a hose, for example, a sewer hose at 1704 through apivoting connection 1706. In this embodiment, the nozzle 1700 may pivotor tilt as indicated 1708 with respect to a hose connected at 1704.

FIG. 18 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 1800. The nozzle1800 connects to a hose, for example, a sewer hose at 1804 through apivoting connection 1806. In this embodiment, the nozzle 1800 may pivotor swing side to side as indicated 1808 with respect to a hose connectedat 1804.

FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 1900. The nozzle1900 connects to a hose, for example, a sewer hose at 1904 through aball joint type connection 1906. In this embodiment, the nozzle 1900 maypivot, swing, tilt, and/or rotate as indicated 1908 with respect to ahose connected at 1904.

FIG. 20 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 2000. Nozzle fitting2008 has a taper type shape to fit a tank or portal opening.

FIG. 21 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 2100. Nozzle fitting2108 is a screw type for connection to a tank, portal, or receptacle.Note that as shown 2108 is a tapered screw, however, other embodimentsmay have a straight screw connection. Also it is to be understood thatthe screw pitch may be at a higher angle, that there may be multiplethreads, and that the screw may be either an external thread like a bolt(male), or an internal thread like a nut (female). Additionally, thetreading mechanism may be firmly attached to the hose nozzle 2100 or maybe freely rotatable via a captive type mechanism so that a user mayeasily rotate the nozzle fitting 2108 to make a connection.

FIG. 22 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 2200. Nozzle fitting2208 is a bayonet type connection for connecting to a tank, portal, orreceptacle. Note that as shown 2208 is a tapered bayonet, however, otherembodiments may have a straight bayonet connection. Also it is to beunderstood that the bayonet may consist of more than two “pins.” Forexample, in one embodiment, a bayonet may consist of an arrangement of 4pins. While FIG. 22 shows a male bayonet connection, It is to beunderstood that the bayonet connection on the nozzle 2200 may consist ofthe female part of the bayonet connection.

FIG. 23 illustrates one embodiment of a hose nozzle 2300. Nozzle fitting2308 has an expandable ring or collar 2308 that may seal forming aconnection to a tank, portal, or receptacle. This expanding collar maybe, but is not limited to, an air bladder, a mechanical bladder, anexpanding ring, etc. For example, the collar 2308 when in a compressedor released state has a diameter smaller than when it is inflated orexpanded. In the released state it may be inserted into, for example, acircular pipe. The collar 2308 may then be expanded to form asubstantially solid seal with the circular pipe. Such a connection mayprevent fluids from splashing back, for example, onto the handle of thenozzle. The bladder or expandable collar or ring may be activated by amechanical means, air means, electrical means, etc. For example amechanical means may operate much like bottle stoppers that use a leverto compress a rubber-like ring against the sides of a wine bottle.Alternatively, the sealing mechanism (the ring or collar) may operateusing isotropic elasticity, i.e. making use of Poisson's ratio.

FIG. 24 illustrates one embodiment 2400 of the invention. 2401 is a topview of a vehicle. 2402 is an expandable hose shown in a retractedstate. One end of the hose is permanently connected at 2404 to, forexample, waste tanks located on the vehicle 2401. The other end of theexpandable hose 2406 may be extended in the direction 2410. Not shown inFIG. 24 is a guiding channel, or housing surrounding the hose, that maybe present.

FIG. 25 illustrates one embodiment 2500 of the invention. 2501 is a topview of a vehicle. 2502 is an expandable hose shown in a retractedstate. One end of the hose is fixedly connected at 2504 to, for example,waste tanks located on the vehicle 2501. The other end of the expandablehose 2506 may be extended in the direction 2510. 2512 is a housing inwhich the hose 2502 may freely expand and contract. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 25 it will be noted that the fixed end of the hose and theend which can be extended are both located on the same side of thevehicle.

FIG. 26 illustrates one embodiment 2600 of the invention. 2601 is a topview of a vehicle. 2602 is an expandable hose shown in a partiallyextended state. One end of the hose is always connected at 2604 to, forexample, waste tanks located on the vehicle 2601. The other end of theexpandable hose 2606 is shown extended in the direction 2610. 2612 is ahousing in which the hose 2602 may freely expand and contract. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 26 it will be noted that the end of the hosewhich can be extended is at an angle 90 degrees from the fixed end(2604), and as illustrated exits from the back (or front) of thevehicle. Other variations, such as a diagonal routing of the hose (rightrear to left front), etc., will be understood as possible by one ofskill in the art.

FIG. 27 illustrates one embodiment 2700 of the invention. 2701 is a topview of a vehicle. 2702 is an expandable hose shown in a partiallyextended state. One end of the hose is permanently attached at 2704 to,for example, a connection to valves which then connect to waste tankslocated on the vehicle 2701. The other end of the expandable hose 2706may be extended in the direction 2710. 2712 is a housing in which thehose 2702 may freely expand and contract. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 27 it will be noted that the hose is arranged in a serpentinepattern. This may allow the end of the hose 2706 to extend further as ahose 2702 of longer length may be stored as compared with one thatdirectly crosses the vehicle 2701. One skilled in the art will recognizethat other arrangements of the hose layout may also be made, such as,for example, a U-shaped pattern, etc. Additionally, the housing 2712 mayextend beyond the sides of the vehicle 2701 as shown in FIG. 27. Thehousing 2712 may also attach anywhere along the path of the hose 2702,extending, for example, all the way to the fixed connection point at2704.

FIG. 28 illustrates one embodiment of the invention where a valve handle2804 is located on the side of the hose nozzle body 2802.

For ease of operation of a mechanism for extending and retracting ahose, a remote control may be used in one embodiment. For example, awireless remote control may be used to control a pump which creates apressure for extending the hose and a vacuum for retracting the hose.Such a remote control may be conveniently placed on a hose nozzle body,for example, in FIG. 28 is may be placed at the location indicated at2806. In this way the user may extend and retract the hose while holdingon to the nozzle. In other embodiments the remote control may be wiredrather than wireless.

Additionally the remote control may operate the opening and closing ofwaste gate valves, flushing valve, and other valves, etc. In this way,the remote control may be used for controlling the evacuation of wastefrom a single control location.

FIG. 29 illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing a source ofpressure and/or vacuum. Two tanks or containers 2902 and 2904 are shown.Here, on the passenger side of a RV are located valves 2906 and 2908feeding into a plumbing system 2910 and 2912 respectively that join to asingle hose 2914 which traverses across the tanks and emerges on anotherside, for example, the driver's side where it terminates in a nozzle2916. By placing the valves on one side of a vehicle and the nozzle onanother, a hose, such as 2914 may be a collapsible or extendible hoseand thus in a closed or compacted form fit within the width of a vehicleand when extended may go to a portal some distance away from thevehicle. Also shown in FIG. 29 is a source of air pressure and/or avacuum 2920. This source of air pressure and/or vacuum 2920 is incommunication with 2910, 2912, 2914, and 2916 via a tube 2922. In oneembodiment of the invention air pressure supplied by 2920 iscommunicated through 2922 supplying increased air pressure to 2910,2912, and 2914 resulting in 2914 and the nozzle at 2916 extendingoutward from the vehicle. If 2920 creates a decrease in air pressure ora vacuum this is communicated to 2910, 2912, and 2914 via 2922 and thisresults in nozzle 2916 and the hose 2914 if already extended from thevehicle being retracted toward the vehicle. The source of the airpressure and/or vacuum 2920 may be conveniently located anywhere on thevehicle or supplied by connection to an external source, and the tubing2922 may connect at any point along 2910, 2912, and 2914. The source ofthe air pressure and/or vacuum 2920 may be implemented in a variety ofways and no limitation in these implementations is implied by FIG. 29.For example 2920 may consist of an air compressor, valves, an airamplifier, and other associated devices which are capable of creatingand supplying air pressure and/or a vacuum.

FIG. 30 illustrates one embodiment of the invention showing ventingtubes. Two tanks or containers 3006 and 3008 are shown. Here, on thedriver side of a RV is the nozzle 3002 shown being extended from, forexample, a collapsible hose 3004 which has increase air pressuresupplied by unit 3020 and communicated via tube 3022. Venting tube 3026is in communication with tank 3006 and venting tube is in communicationwith 3008. The venting tubes are useful or directing gasses that mayform in the tanks upward into the atmosphere. These tubes which shownstraight may also be curved and routed around other objects. The ventingtubes are generally routed so as to exit near the top of a vehicle.Venting tube 3030 is in communication with 3004, and a valve 3032. Valve3032 also is in communication with venting tube 3034. Valve 3032controls whether gas entering 3030 is allowed to pass to venting tubesection 3034. Valve 3032 is needed because, for example, when unit 3020supplies via 3022 increased air pressure 3032 needs to be closed so thatthe increased air pressure goes through 3004 and thereby extends nozzle3002. If valve 3032 were not closed but open then the increased theirpressure supplied by 3020 communicated by 3022 would simply go through3030, pass through the open valve 3032, the venting tube 3034, and go tothe atmosphere. If the valve is open then the amount of increased theirpressure to 3004 to extend the nozzle 3002 would be greatly decreased.Likewise when unit 3020 is creating a vacuum or decrease in air pressurecommunicated through 3022 to 3004 and retracting the nozzle 3002, valve3032 needs to be closed so that the vacuum or decrease in pressure isnot defeated by air flowing into 3034, through an open valve 3032,through 3030 back through 3022, and to the unit creating a vacuum 3020.When the hose 3004 and nozzle 3002 are retracted into the vehicle and nolonger need to be extended or retracted the gases that may form in 3004may be vented by having valve 3032 open. In this way gas will flowthrough 3030, through the open valve 3032, to the venting tube 3034 andinto the atmosphere.

While the details of valve 3032 are not critical to the understanding ofthe invention, in practice, valve 3032 will likely be an electricallyoperated valve, for example, an electrically operated gate valve, asmall ball valve, etc. This may be the same type of valve as shown inFIG. 29 as valves 2906 and 2908. The operation and control of the valve3032 may be combined with the control and operation of extending andretracting the nozzle. For example, if the user goes to extend thenozzle valve, 3032 may close automatically, likewise when the user goesto retract the nozzle valve 3032 may also close. The control of valve3032 may be in response to extension or retraction of the nozzle and/orin combination with increased air pressure and/or a vacuum generated byunit 3020.

FIG. 31 illustrates one embodiment of the invention called Waste Master1 (WM1). At 3102 is a male connector that may come from one of thevalves which is connected to a waste tank, for example a black watertank or grey water tank. That is, connection 3102 may represent, forexample, referring to FIG. 10 a connection such as 1010 or 1012. Fitting3104 is a female adapter which connects the male adapter 3102 to 3106which is a rigid hose sheath the rigid hose sheath is used for guidingthe flexible sewer hose illustrated at 3112. In this embodiment there isa nozzle box 3108 which houses the hose nozzle 3114 and has an optionaldoor 3110. In operation when flexible sewer hose 3112 is in a retractedstate the hose nozzle 3114 is within the nozzle box 3108. As previouslydescribed the flexible sewer hose 3112 allows the hose nozzle 3114 to beextended from the nozzle box 3108 and retracted back into the nozzle box3108.

FIG. 32 illustrates one embodiment of the invention called Waste Master2 (WM2). At 3202 is a male connector which may come from one of thevalves which is connected to a waste tank, for example, a black watertank, or a grey water tank. That is, connection 3202 may represent forexample, referring to FIG. 10 a connection such as 1010 or 1012. Fitting3204 is a female adapter which connects the male adapter 3202 to 3206which is a rigid hose sheath the rigid hose sheath is used for guidingthe flexible sewer hose illustrated at 3212. This rigid sheath 3206 mayrepresent, for example, referring to FIG. 27 the housing 2712 whichguides the flexible hose 2702. In this embodiment there is a nozzle box3208 which houses the hose nozzle 3214 and has an optional door 3210. Inoperation when flexible sewer hose 3212 is in a retracted state the hosenozzle 3214 is within the nozzle box 3208. As previously described theflexible sewer hose 3212 allows the hose nozzle 3214 to be extended fromthe nozzle box 3208 and retracted back into the nozzle box 3208. In thisembodiment, the extension and retraction of the hose nozzle 3214 andflexible sewer hose 3212 is accomplished by an assisting mechanism.Connected to the male at 3202 is a tube 3225 which is in communicationwith the extend/retract module 3224. In this way a pressure and/or avacuum created by 3224 may be communicated through tube 3225 which isconnected to male 3202 and such increase or decrease in air pressurewill be communicated to the flexible sewer hose 3212 and thus extendand/or retract hose nozzle 3214. The extend/retract module 3224 in thisembodiment is connected via tube 3223 to a ball valve 3222 which isconnected by tube 3221 to an air in source 3220. This air in source 3220may be, for example, an air compressor, a storage tank of compressedair, etc. The compressed air may be supplied by an on-vehicle device ormay be from an outside source, such as a compressed air connection to apump at a waste station. Compressed air, as is well known, may be usedto create a vacuum through what is called a Venturi tube. There areother approaches to creating a vacuum however, what is to be understoodis that the extend/retract module 3224 may have a variety of componentswithin it. For example, after the hose nozzle 3214 has been extended,liquid waste may be flowing through the male section 3202, the flexiblesewer hose 3212, and out the nozzle at 3214 thus the extend/retractmodule 3224 is most likely to have a valve which shuts off communicationwith tube 3225 so that such waste does not enter the extend/retractmodule 3224.

FIG. 33 illustrates one embodiment of the invention called Waste Master3 (WM3). At 3302 is a male connector which may come from one of thevalves which is connected to a waste tank, for example, a black watertank, or a grey water tank. That is, connection 3302 may represent, forexample, referring to FIG. 10 a connection such as connecting to 1010 or1012. Fitting 3304 is a female adapter which connects the male adapter3302 to 3306 which is a rigid hose sheath the rigid hose sheath is usedfor guiding the flexible sewer hose illustrated at 3312. This rigidsheath 3306 may represent, for example, referring to FIG. 27 the housing2712 which guides the flexible hose 2702. In this embodiment there is anozzle box 3308 which houses the hose nozzle 3314 and has an optionaldoor 3310. In operation when flexible sewer hose 3312 is in a retractedstate the hose nozzle 3314 is within the nozzle box 3308. As previouslydescribed the flexible sewer hose 3312 allows the hose nozzle 3314 to beextended from the nozzle box 3308 and retracted back into the nozzle box3308. In this embodiment, the extension and retraction of the hosenozzle 3314 and flexible sewer hose 3312 is accomplished by an assistingmechanism. Connected to the male at 3302 is a tube 3325 which is incommunication with the extend/retract module 3324. In this way apressure and/or a vacuum created by 3324 may be communicated throughtube 3325 which is connected to male 3302 and such increase or decreasein air pressure will be communicated to the flexible sewer hose 3312 andthus extend and/or retract hose nozzle 3314. The extend/retract module3324 in this embodiment is connected via tube 3323 to a solenoid valve3322 which is connected by tube 3321 to an air in source 3320. This airin source 3320 may be, for example, an air compressor, a storage tank ofcompressed air, etc. The compressed air may be supplied by an on-vehicledevice or may be from an outside source, such as a compressed airconnection to a pump at a waste station. Compressed air, as is wellknown, may be used to create a vacuum through what is called a Venturitube. There are other approaches to creating a vacuum however, what isto be understood is that the extend/retract module 3324 may have avariety of components within it. For example, after the hose nozzle 3314has been extended, liquid waste may be flowing through the male section3302, the flexible sewer hose 3312, and out the nozzle at 3314 thus theextend/retract module 3324 is most likely to have a valve which shutsoff communication with tube 3325 so that such waste does not enter theextend/retract module 3324. In this embodiment solenoid valve 3322 isconnected via wires 3331 to a pressure regulator 3330. In this way theair in at 3320 may be regulated to the extend/retract module 3324. Thepressure regulator 3330 may be controlled, for example, by a remoteswitch shown at 3332. In this way the user may by flipping a switch suchas 3332 may control the extension and retraction of the hose nozzle3314.

FIG. 34 illustrates one embodiment of the invention called Waste Master4 (WM4). At 3402 is a male connector which may come from one of thevalves which is connected to a waste tank, for example, a black watertank, or a grey water tank. That is, connection 3402 may represent, forexample, referring to FIG. 10 a connection such as connecting to 1010 or1012. Fitting 3404 is a female adapter which connects the male adapter3402 to 3406 which is a rigid hose sheath the rigid hose sheath is usedfor guiding the flexible sewer hose illustrated at 3412. This rigidsheath 3406 may represent, for example, referring to FIG. 27 the housing2712 which guides the flexible hose 2702. This sheath may be constructedin a variety of ways. For example, in one embodiment it may be PVC tubewhich is large enough in diameter to accommodate the flexible sewerhose. In this embodiment there is a nozzle box 3408 which houses thehose nozzle 3414 and has an optional door 3410. In operation whenflexible sewer hose 3412 is in a retracted state the hose nozzle 3414 iswithin the nozzle box 3408. As previously described the flexible sewerhose 3412 allows the hose nozzle 3414 to be extended from the nozzle box3408 and retracted back into the nozzle box 3408. In this embodiment,the extension and retraction of the hose nozzle 3414 and flexible sewerhose 3412 is accomplished by an assisting mechanism. Connected to themale at 3402 is a tube 3425 which is in communication with theextend/retract module 3424. In this way a pressure and/or a vacuumcreated by 3424 may be communicated through tube 3425 which is connectedto male 3402 and such increase or decrease in air pressure will becommunicated to the flexible sewer hose 3412 and thus extend and/orretract hose nozzle 3414. The extend/retract module 3424 in thisembodiment is connected via tube 3423 to a solenoid valve 3422 which isconnected by tube 3421 to an air in source 3420. This air in source34320 may be, for example, an air compressor, a storage tank ofcompressed air, etc. The compressed air may be supplied by an on-vehicledevice or may be from an outside source, such as a compressed airconnection to a pump at a waste station. Compressed air, as is wellknown, may be used to create a vacuum through what is called a Venturitube. There are other approaches to creating a vacuum however, what isto be understood is that the extend/retract module 3424 may have avariety of components within it. For example, after the hose nozzle 3414has been extended, liquid waste may be flowing through the male section3402, the flexible sewer hose 3412, and out the nozzle at 3414 thus theextend/retract module 3424 is likely to have a valve which shuts offcommunication with tube 3425 so that such waste does not entersubstantially into the extend/retract module 3424. In this embodimentsolenoid valve 3422 is connected via wires 3431 to a receiver 3430. Inthis way the air in at 3420 may be controlled to the extend/retractmodule 3424. The receiver 3430 may be controlled, for example, by ahandheld remote shown at 3432. In this way the user may by operating thehandheld remote 3432 may control the extension and retraction of thehose nozzle 3414. The handheld remote 3432 may be at any number ofphysical locations. For example, a handheld remote such as 3432 may belocated on-board the vehicle, may be located behind an access panel nearthe nozzle, or may be mounted on the hose nozzle 3414 itself.Additionally, one or more handheld remotes are possible.

FIG. 35 illustrates one embodiment of the invention called Waste Master5 (WM5). At 3502 is a male connector which may come from one of thevalves which is connected to a waste tank, for example, a black watertank, or a grey water tank. That is, connection 3502 may represent, forexample, referring to FIG. 27 a connection to 2704. Fitting 3504 is afemale adapter which connects the male adapter 3502 to the flexiblesewer hose 3512 which is located inside 3506 a rigid hose sheath usedfor guiding the flexible sewer hose illustrated at 3412 to the nozzlebox 3508. This rigid sheath 3406 may represent, for example, referringto FIG. 27 the housing 2712 which guides the flexible hose 2702. Thissheath may be constructed in a variety of ways. For example, in oneembodiment it may be rectangular metal box-like structure that supportsand guides the flexible sewer hose. In this embodiment there is a nozzlebox 3508 which houses the hose nozzle 3514 and has an optional door3510. In operation when flexible sewer hose 3512 is in a retracted statethe hose nozzle 3514 is within the nozzle box 3508. As previouslydescribed the flexible sewer hose 3512 allows the hose nozzle 3514 to beextended from the nozzle box 3508 and retracted back into the nozzle box3508. In this embodiment, the extension and retraction of the hosenozzle 3514 and flexible sewer hose 3512 is accomplished by a mechanism.Connected to the male at 3502 is a tube 3525 which is in communicationwith the extend/retract module 3524. In this way a pressure and/or avacuum created by 3524 may be communicated through tube 3525 which isconnected to male 3502 and such increase or decrease in air pressurewill be communicated to the flexible sewer hose 3512 and thus extendand/or retract hose nozzle 3514. The extend/retract module 3524 in thisembodiment generates the pressure/vacuum within a self contained unit.The extend/retract module 3524 is electrically controlled by electricalswitch panel 3530 through wire connections 3531 to the extend/retractmodule 3524. In one embodiment, extend/retract module 3524, may haveelectrically operated valves, an air compressor, a venturi tube, andelectronic controls.

FIG. 36 illustrates one embodiment of the invention called Waste Master6 (Wm6). At 3602 is a conduit which may have come from one of the valveswhich is connected to a waste tank, for example, a black water tank, ora grey water tank. That is, connection 3602 may represent, for example,referring to FIG. 10 a connection to 1010 or 1012. In this embodimentthe flexible sewer hose 3612 which is located inside 3606 a rigid hosesheath used for guiding the flexible sewer hose is directly connected toconduit 3602. In this embodiment the rigid hose sheath 3606 is connectedto the nozzle box 3608 but does not extend all the way to the conduit3602. This is may be done so that access to the conduit 3602 andflexible hose 3612 joint may be easily accessible, for example, toinspect a clamp that may secure flexible hose 3612 to conduit 3602. Theflexible hose 3612 in this embodiment is shown as a corrugated type hoseextending from conduit 3602 all the way to a hose nozzle 3614. In otherembodiments conduit 3602 may extend for example partway across thevehicle before making connection to a flexible sewer hose 3612. In thisembodiment there is a nozzle box 3608 which houses the hose nozzle 3614and has an optional door 3610. In operation when flexible sewer hose3612 is in a retracted state the hose nozzle 3614 is within the nozzlebox 3608. As previously described the flexible sewer hose 3612 allowsthe hose nozzle 3614 to be extended from the nozzle box 3608 andretracted back into the nozzle box 3608. In this embodiment, theextension and retraction of the hose nozzle 3614 and flexible sewer hose3612 is accomplished by a mechanism. Connected to the conduit 3602 is atube 3625 which is in communication with the extend/retract module 3624.In this way a pressure and/or a vacuum created by 3624 may becommunicated through tube 3625 which is connected to conduit 3602 andsuch increase or decrease in air pressure will be communicated to theflexible sewer hose 3612 and thus extend and/or retract hose nozzle3614. The extend/retract module 3624 in this embodiment generates thepressure/vacuum from a tube 3623 communicating a regulated pressure frompressure regulator 3630 which receives an air source from tubes 3621communicated from air in 3620. The extend/retract module 3624 iselectrically controlled by receiver 3630 through wire connections 3631to the extend/retract module 3624. Additionally, receiver 3640 may becontrolled by a handheld remote 3642. In one embodiment, extend/retractmodule 3624, may have electrically operated valves, a venturi tube, andelectronic controls.

FIG. 37 illustrates one embodiment of the invention 3700 in blockschematic form. During discharge of black water 3710 and/or gray water3714, nozzle 3708 is extended from the vehicle 3701 and placed incontact with a receptacle. Extendible hose 3702 (guided by the sheath orshroud 3706) is attached to a joint 3704. 3704 has tubing 3713 connectedto it which connects to a valve 3716, tubing 3715, and then to graywater 3714. Additionally tubing 3713 is connected to a valve 3712,through tubing 3711, to the black water tank 3710. These components;black water 3710, tubing 3711, valve 3712, tubing 3713, gray water 3714,tubing 3715, and valve 3716 are generally mounted in a position above3704 or equal in elevation to 3704 so that gravity will assist in theemptying of the black water 3710 and/or the gray water 3714 throughexpandable hose 3702, through nozzle 3708 which is in contact with areceptacle.

Tubing 3725 is generally mounted above or higher in elevation (or routedhigher) than the black water 3710 and/or gray water 3714 so the blackwater and/or gray water does not come in contact through tubing 3725with valve 3724 or valve 3746. In practice, tubing 3713 which is usedfor conveying black water 3710 or grey water 3714 through connector 3704to flexible hose 3702 will generally be larger in size than tubing 3725which is conveying either an air pressure and/or a decrease in airpressure and/or a vacuum.

Now a discussion of emptying black water 3710 or gray water 3714 isdisclosed. For sake of illustration, assume initially that expandablehose (or tube) 3702 attached to nozzle 3708 is in an extended positionand nozzle 3708 is in contact with a receptacle for receiving waste.Assume further that all valves (3712, 3716, 3722, 3724, 3728, 3740, and3746) are closed (or off), that is no air, vacuum, or fluids are allowedto pass through the valve. To empty black water 3710, valve 3712 wouldbe opened. Now, black water 3710 flows through tubing 3711, open valve3712, through tubing 3713, through connector 3704, through flexible tube3702, to nozzle 3708 which has its valve open, and to the receptacle.When the black water tank is empty or emptied to the extent necessary,valve 3712 is shut off. A similar mode of operation is used to empty thegray water 3714. In this case valve 3712 is off, 3746 is off, 3724 isoff (off denoting that the valve is closed so that gases and/or fluidsmay not flow through it) valve 3716 is opened and gray water 3714 flowsthrough 3715 to open valve 3716, through 3704, through flexible tubing3702, through nozzle 3708 to receptacle. Note that when valve 3746 and3724 are closed no material may flow from tube 3725 through valve 3724or 3746 to reach 3745 or 3723.

An explanation of the present invention for extending and retractingnozzle 3708 by using the flexible extendible and collapsible tubing 3702within sheath 3706 will now be detailed. Flexible tubing 3702 is fixedlyattached to a joint (or connection block) 3704 at one end and isattached to nozzle 3708 at the other end. Nozzle 3708 internally has avalve which may be opened or closed by the user. Assume initially thatthe nozzle 3708 is retracted and the nozzle valve is closed. This may bethe case where, for example, the nozzle has been stowed away within anozzle box on the side of a vehicle. The user would open an optionalnozzle box door and then push an extend button. In one embodiment of theinvention pressing the extend button may create the following sequenceof events. Assume initially all valves (3712, 3716, 3722, 3724, 3728,3740, and 3746) are closed. Upon pressing the button to extend thenozzle 3708 valve 3722 would open, valve 3724 would open, and airpressure at 3720 would flow through tube 3721, open valve 3722, and to3723, through open valve 3724, through tubing 3725, through a joint3704, and into the expandable hose 3702. Since nozzle 3708 has a valvewhich is closed the increased air pressure within tube 3702 will expandthe tube 3702 by pushing it outward by expanding the accordion-likenature of the tube (hose) 3702. Thus air flow (air pressure) willgenerally follow the arrow as indicated by 3726.

Air pressure 3720 in this embodiment may be, for example, an aircompressor, which is activated at the same time the valves 3722 and 3724open. Alternatively in another embodiment, previously air pressure from3720 may have been stored in an air pressure tank 3730. This would bepossible if valves 3724 and 3740 are closed, valves 3722 and 3728 areopen, and an air compressor located at 3720 operates and sendscompressed air through 3721, open valve 3722, through tubing 3723,through open valve 3728, through 3729, and into the air pressure storagetank 3730. After sufficient air pressure had been stored, valve 3728 maybe closed so as to retain the air pressure in the storage tank 3730.

Thus another way of extending the nozzle 3708 would be to have allvalves closed except valve 3728 and valve 3724. In this case stored airpressure from tank 3730 would flow through tube 3729, open valve 3728,through tubing 3723, open valve 3724, through open valve 3725, through3704 and into flexible tubing 3702. Please note that in this case valve3746 is closed so no air pressure will flow from 3725 through the closedvalve 3746. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the airpressure supplied by 3720 and/or 3730 may be generated on-board orsupplied from an external source. For example, the air pressure storagetank 3730 in one embodiment may be the only source of air pressure. Airpressure storage tank 3730 may be filled up at, for example, a gasstation where compressed air is available. Much like filling up a tirewith air pressure the air pressure storage tank 3730 may be filled in asimilar way. In this embodiment air pressure is used to extend tubing3702 with the nozzle 3708 attached.

In the extended position a decrease in air pressure inside hose 3702compared to outside air pressure or a vacuum is created in order toretract nozzle 3708 attached to flexible tubing 3702. Conceptually ifall valves except 3746 are closed and a vacuum can be created towithdraw air as indicated by arrow 3748 then expandable hose 3702 willretract.

The creation of a vacuum is possible by using air pressure and havingthe air flow through a device called a Venturi tube 3742. The creationof a vacuum by using air pressure has long been known. The Venturi tubeis named after the Italian physicist G B Venturi (1746-1822).

In this embodiment of the invention, a Venturi tube 3742 is used tocreate a vacuum which appears at tubing 3745 and is controlled by valve3746. In one embodiment the creation of a vacuum is as follows; airpressure supplied from either the air pressure source 3720 and/or theair storage tank 3730 is communicated to tubing 3723 by open valve 3722and/or 3728. Valve 3724 is closed so there is no air pressure flowing indirection indicated by 3726. With air pressure into 3723 valve 3740 isopened and this pressure is communicated to Venturi tube 3742 via tube3741 and this air is exhausted out tube 3743. The Venturi tube 3742 whenair is flowing in the indicated direction by arrow 3744 creates a vacuumin line 3745. If valve 3746 is now opened this vacuum or decrease in airpressure is communicated to 3725, through 3704, through 3702, and to theclosed valve within the nozzle 3708. The extraction of air in thegeneral direction indicated by arrow 3748 out through the Venturi tubeexit 3743 effectively sucks in and causes to retract the expandable hose3702.

One of skill in the art will realize that expandable hose 3702 may beextended and retracted by the use of increased air pressure entering thehose or air being evacuated (decrease air pressure) from the hose. Whenthe hose is in the extended position, valves 3746 and 3724 are closed,then valves 3712 and/or 3716 may be opened to transfer waste and whenwaste transfer has been completed the valves 3712 and 3716 are closed,then valve 3746 may be opened to communicate a vacuum which pulls airfrom expandable hose 3702 in the direction indicated by 3748 andretracts the nozzle 3708.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that to extend and retract thenozzle 3708 via the flexible hose 3704 by using increased air pressureand a decrease in air pressure or a vacuum, it is necessary that tube3702 and nozzle 3708 form a substantially air tight (gas tight)connection. That is, nozzle 3708 needs to have a valve which can beopened to allow fluids to pass, such as when dumping waste, and a closedposition so that increased air pressure within 3702 will not escape fromthe nozzle, and a decrease in air pressure within 3702 is not defeatedby air leaking into nozzle 3708. Such a valve within the nozzle has beenillustrated in FIG. 1 that 104 and in FIG. 2 at 204. Additionally otherembodiments of such a nozzle have been illustrated in other figures ofthe present invention. For example, a top operated control for the valvehas been illustrated in the closed position in FIG. 5 and an openposition in FIG. 6. Additionally a side operated valve control isindicated in FIG. 28, the valve being controlled by handle 2804.

While in practice, hose 3702 and nozzle 3708 are flushed with gray wateror clear water to keep wastes inside hose 3702 to a minimum, there maybe some waste present. Much like the venting tubes on the black waterand gray water tanks, it is a good idea to vent any gases fromdecomposing waste in hose 3702 to the atmosphere. This may beaccomplished in this example embodiment by having all valves closedexcept for 3746 being open. Any gases from 3702 would then flow in thedirection indicated by arrow 3749 through tube 3725, open valve 3746,through tube 3745, through Venturi tube 3742, and through tube 3743 tothe atmosphere, for example, from tube 3743 extending to the top of thevehicle 3701. Because of the physical construction of the Venturi tubegases may flow from 3745 to 3743 through the Venturi tube even withvalve 3740 closed.

FIG. 38 illustrates one embodiment 3800 of the invention. In thisembodiment waste is entering via tube 3802 and flowing in the directionindicated by the arrow toward the valve 3804. Waste flowing from an openvalve 3804 will flow through 3806, to another valve 3810, into theextendible hose 3812, and out toward a nozzle. Shroud or sheath 3814 isused to guide the extendible hose 3812. When waste valve 3804 is closedthe mechanism shown at 3808 can create air pressure, or a decrease inair pressure or a vacuum. By creating an increase in air pressure at3808 and opening valve 3810 this increasing air pressure is communicatedto the flexible tube 3812 which will expand in length. Conversely bycreating a vacuum at 3808 and having valve 3810 open, air will beextracted from 3812 the flexible tube and it will retract into and beguided by the sheath 3814.

FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 illustrate other embodiments of the invention 3900and 4000. In FIG. 39 and in FIG. 40 different views of a mechanism forcontrolling air pressure and decreased air pressure are shown.

FIG. 41 illustrates one embodiment of the invention 4100 called ServiceBay Master. In this embodiment the nozzle 4102 the expandable hose 4104may be seen in relation to other accessories as denoted by text andarrows pointing to various items. Additionally black water, gray water,and fresh water or clear water tanks are shown. This assembly may beplaced on the underside of a vehicle with access available on the sideof the vehicle. For example referring to FIG. 14 the assembly indicatedby 1404 may be Service Bay Master 4100.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments ofthe invention are possible. For example, one embodiment of the inventionnot illustrated involves the transfer of a debit and/or a credit. Thismay be, for example, a charge that is associated with the dumping ofwaste, etc.

As previously mentioned, the extendible/retractable hose may be expandedby air pressure and contracted by vacuum. One skilled in the artrecognizes that there are a variety of methods and means for creatingair pressure and reduced air pressure, i.e. creating a vacuum. Forexample an air compressor, an air pump, and a fan or blower may be usedfor increasing air pressure. A vacuum may be created by a vacuum pump, afan or blower exhausting from out a region, etc. Additionally, it ispossible to use compressed air or air under pressure to also create avacuum. For example, a venturi, a vortex tube, an air amplifier, and aline vac can all create reduced air pressure (a vacuum).

It is to be understood that references to “hose,” “sewer hose,”“collapsible,” “extendible,” “retractable,” “extendible conduit,”“bellows”, or similar terms with respect to a hose or conduit is a termreferring to a hose, tubing, or flexible hose that by its constructionallows for extension in length and a return to a smaller length thanwhen extended (contraction). Various such devices exist. For example, ahose that is corrugated may be collapsible and expandable in length. Onesuch flexible hose is disclosed by Akedo et al. in U.S. Pat. No.6,024,134 (see FIG. 5). Other hoses may also be used for this purpose.The extended or contracted state may be the default resting state. Forexample in one embodiment the hose may be naturally in a compressedstate and need forces to extend it. In another embodiment the hose maybe in an extended state and need forces to retract or compress it. Inyet another embodiment, the hose may not have any natural state, i.e. itmay need a force to extend it, at which point no additional force isneeded to maintain it at its length, however additional force may beneeded to compress or contract it, at which point no additional force isneeded to maintain it at this compressed state. One such example isaluminum exhaust tubing for a clothes dryer. These type of collapsibleand expandable in length hoses are known by various names such as, butnot limited to, corrugated, accordion, bellows type construction,convoluted, helical coil, etc. What is to be appreciated is that thehose can extend and contract in length.

It is to be understood that terms such as expandable, extendible,retractable, compressible, collapsible, and the like refer to theextension and contraction in length, rather than in diameter, of a hoseor conduit. Additionally, terms such as axially, longitudinally, and thelike refer to the length direction of a hose or conduit rather than thediameter dimension.

As used in this description, “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” orsimilar phrases denotes that the feature(s) being described are includedin at least one embodiment of the invention. References to “oneembodiment” in this description do not necessarily refer to the sameembodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive.Nor does “one embodiment” imply that there is but a single embodiment ofthe invention. For example, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in“One embodiment” may also be included in other embodiments. Thus, theinvention may include a variety of combinations and/or integrations ofthe embodiments described herein.

Use of the descriptive term “driver's side”, “passengers side”, or thelike is to be understood as being used for more conveniently describingthe relationship of the components of the invention, rather than anabsolute position. For example, the driver's side of the vehicle in theUnited States is understood to be on the left side of a vehicle if oneis sitting in the vehicle. However, in the United Kingdom, the driver'sside is considered to be on the right side of the vehicle. Thus what isto be appreciated is that the extendable hose as described in variousembodiments of the invention is attached at one end (generally on oneside of the vehicle) and extends from the other end (generally from thatside or another side).

Use of the descriptive term “vehicle”, “mobile vehicle”, “RV”, or thelike is to be understood as being used for more conveniently describingthe present invention and not as a limitation. For example, vehicle isto include, but is not limited to, buses, trucks, trailers, mobilekitchens, emergency mobile hospitals, and other mobile facilities thatmay store waste or liquids, such as trains, planes, ships, etc.

Thus, a method and apparatus for waste evacuation have been described.

1. An apparatus comprising: a flexible hose having an input and anoutput, said flexible hose capable of extending and retracting in lengthand maintaining a fixed length without external forces being applied; asource of material to be transferred through said flexible hose whereinsaid source of material to be transferred is in communication with saidflexible hose input; and a sheath through which said flexible hose mayextend and retract.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising anozzle having an input and an output, said nozzle input in communicationwith said flexible hose output.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising an extend/retract module in gas communication with saidflexible hose.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising: ahandheld remote control; and a receiver capable of responding to asignal from said handheld remote control.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4further comprising a nozzle box.
 6. A method comprising: activating ahandheld remote control; receiving a signal from said handheld remotecontrol; controlling an extend/retract module based on said receivedsignal from said handheld remote control; and based on said receivedsignal from said handheld remote control either: extending a flexiblehose; or retracting a flexible hose.
 7. The method of claim 6 whereinsaid extending said flexible hose is accomplished by supplying apositive gas pressure with respect to local atmospheric pressure to ainside of said flexible hose.
 8. The method of claim 6 wherein saidretracting said flexible hose is accomplished by supplying a negativegas pressure with respect to local atmospheric pressure to a inside ofsaid flexible hose.
 9. An apparatus comprising: means for receiving andresponding to a handheld remote control device; means for activating anextend/retract module in communication with an extendible hose; andmeans for transferring material through said extendible hose.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 9 further comprising charging a fee for saidtransferring material through said extendible hose.